Young Adult in Scotland Anxious About ALS Symptoms
Hello everyone, I’m a 23-year-old residing in Scotland. I hit the gym three times a week and can handle weightlifting without any trouble. However, around four months ago, I began experiencing a twitch in my left elbow, which marked the beginning of my concerns. This twitch persisted as my only indication for nearly two months. In May, I noticed that muscle twitches started manifesting throughout my body, particularly in my calves, feet, and both elbows, alongside sporadic twitching in my biceps, triceps, shoulders, and back. Moreover, I’ve felt a slight change in my walking pattern. While I’m not stumbling or experiencing foot drop, it feels like there’s something off in my left leg, particularly around my buttock which feels stiff, and my knee isn’t fully extending. This constant self-examination has led me to moments of almost breaking down when I think I might be experiencing weakness. Some days, my hands and fingers seem unusually heavy, but I am still able to lift objects and manage small tasks; the heaviness fades after a while. Yet, the sensation in my leg has persisted and the twitching leaves me anxious all the time. I recently underwent a peak flow test which indicated obstructive results concerning my breathing. At this point, I find it hard to relax. I’ve spent a lot of time researching, and even consulted an AI health assistant that indicated the likelihood of ALS at my age is extremely low, yet I still feel scared. I've scheduled an appointment with a neurologist, but I am seeking some advice as this situation is significantly impacting my daily life. Thank you for any support you can provide.
Answers (1)
7/15/2025, 9:40:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious when experiencing unusual physical symptoms, especially when they can have serious implications. In your case, it's important to address both your physical symptoms and the anxiety they are causing. Based on your description, muscle twitching, stiffness, and perceived heaviness can have various causes, and your recent consultation with a neurologist is a valuable step towards understanding what's happening.
Explanation:
Muscle twitching (or fasciculations) can be benign and associated with stress, fatigue, or overexertion. Changes in walking might indicate mild muscle stiffness or strain, and not necessarily a serious condition like ALS, especially at your age. The feelings of heaviness in your hands and legs could also relate to anxiety and muscle tension rather than a neurological issue.
Regarding the obstructive results from your peak flow test, while it doesn't correlate directly with symptoms like twitching, it’s essential to follow up with your doctor to address respiratory issues as they might also contribute to anxiety and overall well-being.
Next Steps:
-
Continue Following Up with Your Neurologist: They can provide specialized assessments, including EMG tests, to examine your muscle and nerve function.
-
Document Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any triggers you notice. This can help your neurologist better understand the patterns of your symptoms.
-
Manage Anxiety: Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or light physical activity like stretching or yoga. These can help reduce anxiety and tension in your muscles.
-
Physical Activity: Since you’re already active, ensure your workouts are well-rounded and avoid overstraining a specific muscle group. Consider speaking with a fitness professional about your workout routine; they can help ensure you're not unintentionally exacerbating your symptoms.
-
Stay Informed but Balanced: While researching health conditions can help, try to balance it with neutral sources and avoid excessive focus on unlikely scenarios (like ALS), as this can increase anxiety.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s commendable that you are seeking help. Your ongoing communication with healthcare professionals is vital to address both the physical and emotional components of what you are experiencing.
Related Questions
Worsening Memory Problems Over Time
Age: 25 Weight: 175 lbs Current Medications: Modafinil (200mg); Lexapro (10 mg); Lamotrigine (100mg in the morning + 100 mg in the evening); Cyproheptadine (4 mg); Vraylar (1.5 mg) Supplements: Iron; Vitamin B12; Vitamin D; Salt tablets Health Background: Long-standing, stubborn migraines (resolved as of May 2025, originally began in April 2016); Depression (currently very stable); Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) (experimented with various stimulants with no improvement in memory); Chronic fatigue syndrome (developed a few years after memory problems began). I possess a documented medical history concerning my memory challenges. Around 2012, I underwent neurological evaluations that included an IQ assessment. The clinician indicated that my memory performance was particularly low, affecting my overall IQ representation, while I scored at or above average in most other areas. In approximately 2017, a neurologist referred me for a neuropsychological evaluation. Unfortunately, the results were deemed "inconclusive" due to inconsistent findings, with the provider stating my memory levels mirrored the previously reported low scores. Fast forward to 2023, when I underwent another neuropsych evaluation, which indicated my working memory was significantly below the average range. The clinician expressed uncertainty regarding effective treatment options for my memory issues, suggesting avenues such as ADHD medications, stress management, enhancing sleep quality, and mental health support—areas which I have pursued or tried to improve. Here is a summary of the strategies and treatments I've explored: - **Sleep Study**: Diagnosed with mild sleep apnea when lying on my back, although I typically sleep in other positions. - **Antidepressants**: Tried various types repeatedly, yet without noticing any significant changes. - **Occupational Therapy**: Participated but found it more stressful than beneficial. - **Speech Therapy**: Benefitted somewhat, yet it didn't meet my expectations, though I continue to use some of the techniques learned. - **Digital Notes**: Attempted to record important information on my phone, but due to many lists, vital entries often get lost. - **Memantine**: Prescribed by my neurologist as a last resort, based on its reported effectiveness in elderly patients for pain management; however, I did not observe any memory improvements while on this medication. - **Nutritional Supplements**: Regularly take Vitamin B complex, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and various other potential memory enhancers. Additionally, family history reveals that my brother, sister, and paternal grandmother have also faced memory-related issues throughout their lives. Unfortunately, several neurologists have declined to treat me, citing my youth and existing diagnoses of depression and ADD as indicators of instability rather than addressing my memory concerns. Moreover, I am anxious that my past struggles with chronic pain could have exacerbated my memory problems. Any insights or suggestions to tackle these ongoing challenges would be greatly appreciated.
Factors Influencing Rapid Advancement of Leprosy
I'm an 18-year-old assigned female at birth, standing at 5'11" and weighing 150 pounds. I've ceased taking any antibiotics or other prescribed medications, with the exception of haloperidol. I smoke and drink, but I don't engage in drug use. My ethnicity is Caucasian. Additionally, I have several other health issues, including anemia, scoliosis, endometriosis, and ovarian complications. I find myself unwilling to endure this condition for the next two decades. Currently, my health feels precarious. My wounds take an excruciatingly long time to heal or sometimes don't heal at all. I experience numbness or a tingling sensation in my hands, where the skin resembles that of a reptile, likely due to my fingers being either broken or oddly bent, possibly infected as well. My arms, legs, and face are covered in lesions, primarily due to these unhealed wounds. Furthermore, I deal with mild muscle weakness, a condition that began during my time playing football as a lineman, accompanied by numerous injuries that still haven’t fully recovered. I find myself wishing for a more rapid progression of this disease so that I can reach a point of resolution, as I feel irreparably damaged and have turned down treatment out of deep-seated self-loathing. Is there any way to accelerate this? I should mention, though it may not be directly related: my scars have a purplish hue, and I've noticed small visible 'holes' near these scars on my left arm—at least four that I've identified—while my left hand seems to be in the worst condition. Thank you for listening. Goodbye.
Seeking Clarity on Brain MRI Results
I’m a 36-year-old man experiencing occasional headaches, and I have no additional health concerns. I take Lexapro for anxiety and Ativan as needed. Earlier this week, I underwent a non-contrast MRI scan of my brain, and I have received the following report: **REASON FOR EXAMINATION:** Periodic headaches described as dull in nature. **COMPARISON:** None available. **TECHNIQUE USED:** The imaging included sagittal T1, axial FLAIR, axial T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and coronal gradient-echo sequences of the brain. **RESULTS:** The size of the ventricles and sulci appears to be normal. The position of the cerebellar tonsils is also within normal limits. Notably, a bilobed, septated lesion measuring 18 x 10 mm is located in the right parietal cortex, associated with some underlying edema or gliotic changes and cortical expansion. The pituitary gland size is normal. There are no signs of intracranial bleeding or any indications of recent infarcts in the cerebral regions, brainstem, or cerebellum. No abnormalities were detected on diffusion-weighted imaging. Additionally, there are no signal changes that would imply a demyelinating condition, such as multiple sclerosis. There are no fluid collections outside of the brain or subdural hematomas noted. Major blood vessels are patent, as indicated by the flow voids. The paranasal sinuses and mastoid air cells appear clear, although there is mild mucosal thickening in the left anterior ethmoidal air cells. **SUMMARY:** The findings suggest an 18 x 10 mm intra-axial cystic lesion in the right parietal lobe, accompanied by mild underlying edema or gliotic changes. This could possibly be an atypical manifestation of enlarged perivascular spaces or a benign cystic structure. Further evaluation with postcontrast imaging is advised. The overall conclusion of the MRI is otherwise normal. I’m feeling really anxious about these findings. Can anyone help me understand what this might mean?
Unexplained Bruising and Intense Itching
Hello, I’m a 20-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing 135 pounds. Recently, I have been experiencing intense itching that has resulted in significant bruising on my skin. Currently, I’m on several medications including spironolactone (which I haven’t taken for the last two weeks), Effexor, Aimovig, Wegovy, and Linzess. I do not use tobacco or consume alcohol. Apart from experiencing a generally sluggish digestive system, I have no pre-existing health issues. However, my family medical history indicates occurrences of Multiple Sclerosis, Hashimoto’s disease, diabetes, and eczema. The itching has become severe, leading to large bruises forming on my body. I consulted a virtual urgent care service, which advised me to visit the emergency room to check for potential blood clots or internal bleeding. Upon arriving at the ER, I underwent various tests, and I noticed that my resting heart rate has been notably elevated between 120 and 140 beats per minute, though I am uncertain if this is a new development. Eventually, I was discharged without any conclusive information, except with the advice to refrain from scratching. I have shared images of the tests conducted during my visit.
Understanding Prednisone Usage and Withdrawal
A 38-year-old woman, measuring 5’10 and weighing 125 pounds, with no smoking or drinking habits and a background of autoimmune disease, encountered a viral infection in December. In response to her condition, a specialist recommended a tapering regimen starting with a 40mg dose of prednisone for five days, followed by a gradual reduction through 30mg, 20mg, and 10mg over a total period of 20 days. After completing the course and halting the medication, she experienced severe symptoms approximately 36 hours later, including intense vomiting, debilitating headaches, and widespread pain throughout her body. Any physical contact provoked discomfort, leaving her in distress. Unable to reach her original provider, she consulted another physician who prescribed a lower dosage of 4mg of prednisone, instructing her to decrease the amount by 1mg every three days. Remarkably, she felt relief upon returning to the 4mg dose. However, she expressed concern regarding the potential effects when she ultimately weans off the medication entirely. She is seeking guidance on whether this method of tapering is typical and which specialist might be best suited to manage her prednisone treatment moving forward.